Hawks have pieces for a trade, but finding the right upgrade another matter

The Hawks have enough young talent to make things interesting in the East. Whether they have enough to make a serious playoff run is a different question.

At 7-5, Atlanta also has several veteran contracts that could help facilitate a deal if a meaningful upgrade becomes available.

Jackson Caudell of Hawks On SI examined that possibility, pointing to CJ McCollum, Lu Dort, Jock Landale and Dorian Finney-Smith as potential pieces in a larger package.

His argument centers on adding another high-level player to a group featuring Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Onyeka Okongwu. Rookies Kingston Flemings and Zuby Ejiofor have offered encouragement, too.

The harder part is identifying someone who would meaningfully improve that group and actually be available.

Caudell raises Devin Booker as a hypothetical possibility, citing the Suns’ difficult start and uncertain direction. Booker’s scoring would address a need, but Caudell also expresses doubt that Phoenix would move one of its most accomplished players.

This is an assessment of possible fits, not a report that the Hawks and Suns are discussing a trade.

Nevertheless, Caudell views a high-level big man as another avenue worth exploring, though the options capable of changing Atlanta’s outlook are limited.

That’s usually where these discussions get complicated. Having contracts to assemble a package is useful. Persuading another team to part with its best player requires considerably more.

Draft compensation would likely become a major part of any such conversation, and Atlanta would have to weigh the cost against how much closer a deal brings it to contention.

The Hawks have given themselves a reason to consider adding. They still need the right opportunity. A solid start creates possibilities, but it doesn’t make every expensive player the missing piece.

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